Iran, once home to one of the most impressive and world-shaping empires in history, is today among the most culturally rich countries in the modern Middle East. The ancient ruins, spectacular architecture, cosmopolitan cities and stunning mosques dotted across Iran today are like a canvas of this country's unique and rich history. Here are a … Continue reading 5 spectacular cultural sites in Iran
If you’re based in London, there are plenty of Middle East-focused events going on throughout November to keep you busy! Top picks: Levison Wood’s speaking tour on 11th – I caught his talk in Manchester and it was fascinating. Don’t miss his brand new book, Arabia! Jon Snow’s talk at UCL on 14th comes at a … Continue reading The Middle East in London: November events calendar
Happy new year! I hope you had a fantastic Christmas and that 2018 is a happy and prosperous one for you and your family! I also want to thank you so very much for reading and following Pink Jinn in 2017. We took a break in December but are back now and very excited for … Continue reading Reasons to be hopeful in 2018
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (or MBS, as he has become known) has been making headlines around the world over the last few months, most recently for a crackdown on corruption that has seen hundreds of prominent Saudi princes, ministers and businessmen arrested and detained in Riyadh’s luxurious Ritz Carleton hotel. The five star … Continue reading Mohammed bin Salman: 5 things you need to know about the most powerful man in Saudi Arabia
The events that are taking place in Charlottesville have shocked many in the United States and beyond. They represent the latest manifestation of a growing trend towards racism, nationalism, exclusion and ignorance that are products of technological developments and globalisation. The world around us is changing beyond recognition, and while many bury their heads in … Continue reading How to change the world
“When they appear in court, let’s make them appear in uniform suits like Guantanamo.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed supporters on Friday night, marking a year since a coup attempt failed to topple his regime, leading to a brutal crackdown on opposition voices and a shift towards greater authoritarianism in Turkey. During his speech, … Continue reading Turkey’s coup a year on: How the murky events of one night changed the course of Turkish politics
Six Arab countries cut diplomatic ties with Qatar on Monday, accusing the tiny natural gas-rich Gulf emirate of sponsoring terrorism and destabilising the region. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have closed their borders with Qatar, stopping flights into the country and giving Qatari visitors and residents two weeks to leave their countries. Kuwait and Oman … Continue reading The Qatar spat: The crack in the GCC’s armour deepens
Eyes have been on Libya in the wake of the bombing that killed 22 people in Manchester last Monday, as it has emerged that the bomber, Salman Abedi, was radicalised by Libyan jihadis and travelled to the country shortly before carrying out the horrific attack. Crowds gathered in Manchester last week to mourn those killed in the … Continue reading Islamic State, Libya and the new Cold War
Donald Trump visited Saudi Arabia over the weekend on his first official foreign trip, signing a $100 billion arms deal and offering support for a new regional order in the Middle East. Meanwhile, the press focused on the First Lady and Daughter’s decision not to wear a headscarf. Ivanka and Melania Trump's decision to forgo … Continue reading Trump in Saudi Arabia: What you missed while the media were obsessing over Melania’s wardrobe
On Sunday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won a narrow majority in a national referendum that will transform Turkey’s political system and extend his powers. 58 million people out of a population of 75 million voted in the referendum, with 51.3% voting ‘yes’ to the new measures. This represents a sharp turn away from Turkey’s … Continue reading Turkey: The new Middle Eastern dictatorship?
